U.S. patent application number 13/728213 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-03 for exercise device.
This patent application is currently assigned to NAUTILUS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is NAUTILUS, INC.. Invention is credited to Bryce C. Baker, Jay C. Blahnik, Edward L. Flick, Kevin M. Hendricks, Marcus L. Marjama.
Application Number | 20140187394 13/728213 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51017824 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140187394 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Blahnik; Jay C. ; et
al. |
July 3, 2014 |
EXERCISE DEVICE
Abstract
An exercise device may include a main body defining an
arch-shaped structure, at least one movable support mechanism
coupled to the main body and configured to support the exercise
device on a support surface, and at least one gripping mechanism
coupled to the main body. The main body may be formed from a shape
retaining material. The exercise device may further include a
biasing mechanism coupled to the main body. The at least one
movable support mechanism may include wheels coupled to the main
body. The at least one gripping mechanism may include a handle or a
recess or an elongated slot formed in the main body. The main body
may further include apertures for joining the handle to the main
body at various positions.
Inventors: |
Blahnik; Jay C.; (Laguna
Beach, CA) ; Baker; Bryce C.; (Battle Ground, WA)
; Flick; Edward L.; (Brush Prairie, WA) ;
Hendricks; Kevin M.; (Portland, OR) ; Marjama; Marcus
L.; (Vancouver, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NAUTILUS, INC. |
Vancouver |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
NAUTILUS, INC.
Vancouver
WA
|
Family ID: |
51017824 |
Appl. No.: |
13/728213 |
Filed: |
December 27, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/141 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0421 20130101;
A63B 21/00181 20130101; A63B 21/0557 20130101; A63B 22/20 20130101;
A63B 21/068 20130101; A63B 23/1236 20130101; A63B 21/0552 20130101;
A63B 21/026 20130101; A63B 21/00065 20130101; A63B 21/4035
20151001; A63B 23/1254 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/141 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1. An exercise device, comprising: a main body comprising a
material that maintains a predetermined shape of the main body in
the absence of an applied force by a user on the main body and that
allows the predetermined shape of the main body to change upon
application of a force by the user; at least one movable support
mechanism joined to the main body and configured to support the
main body on a support surface; and at least one gripping mechanism
operatively associated with the main body and configured to allow
the user to apply the force to the main body.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the material comprises
spring steel.
3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the material resists
changes to the predetermined shape and returns to the predetermined
shape upon removal of the force applied by the user.
4. The exercise device of claim 4, wherein the predetermined shape
comprises an arch-shaped structure.
5. The exercise device according to claim 1, wherein the
arch-shaped structure includes an upper side, an underside, a first
edge, and a second edge distal the first edge; the upper side
defines a convex surface of the arch-shaped structure; the
underside defines a concave surface of the arch-shaped structure;
and the first edge and second edge define two distal ends of the
arch-shaped structure and a length dimension of the arch-shaped
structure.
6. The exercise device of claim 5, wherein the at least one movable
support mechanism comprises a plurality of wheels coupled to the
underside of the main body proximate to one of the first and second
edges of the main body.
7. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein at least one of the
plurality of wheels is coupled to the underside of the main body
via a pair of brackets and an axle supported by the pair of
brackets.
8. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the plurality of wheels
are coupled to the underside of the main body by a common axle.
9. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the at least one movable
support mechanism is coupled to one of the first and second edges
of the arch-shaped structure such that the one of the first and
second edges of the arch-shaped structure does not contact the
support surface.
10. The exercise device of claim 5, wherein the at least one
gripping mechanism comprises at least one handle coupled to the
upper side of the main body.
11. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the at least one
handle is removably coupled to the main body by at least one
fastener, and the main body further comprises at least one aperture
configured to receive the at least one fastener therein.
12. The exercise device of claim 5, wherein the at least one
gripping mechanism comprises at least one recess at one of the
first and second edges of the main body.
13. The exercise device of claim 5, wherein the at least one
gripping mechanism comprises at least one elongated slot formed in
the main body proximate one of the first and second edges of the
main body.
14. The exercise device of claim 5, further comprising a biasing
mechanism joined to an underside of the main body.
15. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the biasing mechanism
comprises at least one elastic band.
16. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the predetermined
shape comprises a substantially flat plate-like structure, and the
biasing mechanism causes the main body to form an arch-shaped
structure.
Description
TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD
[0001] The technological field generally relates to exercise
devices, and more particularly, to an exercise device that assists
a user in performing upper body exercises.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Achieving a fit and toned upper body has long been a goal
for exercisers. Performing a push-up routine is considered an
integral part of succeeding in this goal. However, for the novice
athlete, performing even one quality push-up can be a
challenge.
[0003] One conventional approach to help an exerciser perform
stand-alone push-ups is to build up strength through a series of
fitness routines. For examples, one can first build up enough
strength in the upper body to handle his or her body weight and
then develop a strong core to stabilize his or her body in the
push-up position by using a chest press machine. The chest press
machine or other similar equipment are usually bulky and cumbersome
and lack mobility. A user may be restricted to use such equipment
in a gym. In addition, this type of equipments generally involves a
lot of moving parts and hence is complicated to build and use.
[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for an exercise device that
provides a relatively lightweight and simple structure that eases a
user into performing push-ups or upper body exercises in general,
allows a user to adjust the level of assistance from the device as
the user gradually builds up strength to reach the ability to
perform stand-alone push-ups, and enhances the mobility of the
device.
SUMMARY
[0005] Described herein is an exercise device that helps a user to
perform upper body exercise routines.
[0006] In some examples, the exercise device may include a main
body, at least one movable support mechanism, and at least one
gripping mechanism. The main body may include a material that
maintains a predetermined shape of the main body in the absence of
an applied force by a user on the main body and that allows the
predetermined shape of the main body to change upon application of
a force by the user. The at least one movable support mechanism may
be joined to the main body and configured to support the main body
on a support surface. The at least one gripping mechanism may be
operatively associated with the main body and configured to allow
the user to apply the force to the main body.
[0007] In some examples, the material may be spring steel. In some
examples, the material resists changes to the predetermined shape
and returns to the predetermined shape upon removal of the force
applied by the user.
[0008] In some examples, the predetermined shape may be an
arch-shaped structure. The arch-shaped structure may include an
upper side, an underside, a first edge, and a second edge distal
the first edge. The upper side may define a convex surface of the
arch-shaped structure. The underside may define a concave surface
of the arch-shaped structure. The first edge and second edge may
define two distal ends of the arch-shaped structure and a length
dimension of the arch-shaped structure.
[0009] In some examples, the at least one movable support mechanism
may include two or more wheels coupled to the underside of the main
body proximate to one of the first and second edges of the main
body. In some embodiments, at least one of the two or more wheels
may be coupled to the underside of the main body via a pair of
brackets and an axle supported by the pair of brackets. In other
embodiments, the two or more wheels may be coupled to the underside
of the main body by a common axle.
[0010] In some examples, the at least one movable support mechanism
may be coupled to one of the first and second edges of the
arch-shaped structure such that the one of the first and second
edges of the arch-shaped structure does not contact the support
surface.
[0011] In some examples, the at least one gripping mechanism may
include at least one handle coupled to the upper side of the main
body. The at least one handle may be removably coupled to the main
body by at least one fastener, and the main body further include at
least one aperture configured to receive the at least one fastener
therein.
[0012] In some examples, the at least one gripping mechanism may
include at least one recess at one of the first and second edges of
the main body.
[0013] In some examples, the at least one gripping mechanism may
include at least one elongated slot formed in the main body
proximate one of the first and second edges of the main body.
[0014] In some examples, a biasing mechanism may be joined to an
underside of the main body. The biasing mechanism may include at
least one elastic band.
[0015] In some examples, the predetermined shape may take the form
of a substantially flat plate-like structure, and the biasing
mechanism may cause the main body to form an arch-shaped
structure.
[0016] This summary is provided to aid in understanding the
exercise device, and one of skill in the art will understand that
each of the various aspects and features of the exercise device may
advantageously be used separately in some instances, or in
combination with other aspects and features of the exercise device
in other instances.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exercise device in
its relaxed state.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the exercise device
shown in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the exercise device
shown in FIG. 1 in an extended state.
[0020] FIG. 4A is a front elevation view of a portion of the
exercise device shown in FIG. 1 in its relaxed state.
[0021] FIG. 4B is a cross-section view of a portion of the exercise
device, viewed along line 4B-4B in FIG. 4A.
[0022] FIG. 4C is a side elevation view of an underside portion of
an exercise device that is similar to the exercise device of FIG.
1.
[0023] FIG. 4D is a cross-section view of a portion of the exercise
device of FIG. 4C, viewed along line 4D-4D in FIG. 4C.
[0024] FIG. 5A is a side elevation view of a portion of the
exercise device of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 5B is a side elevation view of a portion of the
exercise device of FIG. 1, showing a second example of a gripping
mechanism for the exercise device.
[0026] FIG. 5C is s a side elevation view of a portion of the
exercise device of FIG. 1, showing a third example of a gripping
mechanism for the exercise device.
[0027] FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of a second example of an
exercise device.
[0028] FIG. 6B is a cross section view of a portion of the exercise
device shown in FIG. 6A, viewed along line 6B-6B in FIG. 6A.
[0029] FIG. 7A is an isometric view of the exercise device of FIG.
1 that shows an example of how a user may use the exercise device
to perform a fly exercise, with the exercise device in its relaxed
state.
[0030] FIG. 7B is an isometric view similar to that of FIG. 7A
showing the exercise device in an extended state.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a side elevation view illustrating a second
example of how a user may use the exercise device shown in FIG. 1
to perform a push-up exercise.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view illustrating a third example
of how a user may use the exercise device shown in FIG. 1 to
perform a push-up exercise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0033] Described herein are exercise devices that help a user to
perform upper body exercise routines. The exercise device may
include a main body, movable support mechanisms, and gripping
mechanisms. The movable support mechanisms may be operably
associated with an underside of the main body, and may support the
exercise device and/or the user on a support surface, such as the
ground. The gripping mechanisms may be operably associated with an
upper side the main body, and may include a mechanism or structure
for the user to hold while applying a force on the exercise device.
The main body may be configured to maintain or to be restored to a
predetermined shape in the absence of an applied force by the user
on the main body. The main body may include a relatively flexible
material, or a material of spring nature, that allows for the
predetermined shape of the main body to be changed upon application
of a force by the user, and to be restored once the applied force
by the user is removed. The ability of the material and the main
body to resist changes and to return to the predetermined shape of
the main body assists a user in performing upper body exercise
routines. The main body may further include mechanisms that allows
the resistance or assistance of the main body to be adjusted as the
user progresses.
[0034] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exercise device 100
according to a first example is shown in its relaxed state. The
exercise device 100 may include a main body 102 that defines a
generally arched-shape structure. The main body 102 may include an
upper side 104, an underside 106, a front edge 108, a rear edge
110, a first or left edge 112, and a second or right edge 114. The
upper side 104 may define a convex surface of the arch-shaped
structure, and the underside 106 may define a concave surface of
the arch-shaped structure. The upper side 104 and the underside 106
may delineate a thickness of the main body 102. The first edge 112
may be distal from the second edge 114, and the first and second
edges 112, 114 may delineate a length dimension of the arch-shaped
structure. The front and back edges 108, 110 may follow the curved
shape of the arch-shaped structure and may delineate a width
dimension of the arch-shaped structure. The distance from the apex
116 of the concave surface 106 of the arch-shaped structure to a
support surface that the exercise device 100 rests upon may be
referred to as the rise L1 of the main body 102 or the rise L1 of
the exercise device 100. The distance from the first or left edge
112 to the second or right edge 114 may be referred to as the span
P1 of the main body 102 or the span P1 of the exercise device
100.
[0035] The exercise device 100 may include first and second movable
support mechanisms 118, 120 joined to the underside 106 of the main
body 102. The first movable support mechanism 118 may be positioned
proximate to the first edge 112, and the second movable support
mechanism 120 may be positioned proximate to the second edge 114.
The first and second movable support mechanisms 118, 120 may
support the exercise device 100 on a supporting surface and may
allow the exercise device 100 to move along the supporting surface.
Each of the first and second movable support mechanisms 118, 120
may include one or more wheels 122 joined to the underside 106 of
the main body 102. Each wheel 122 may be located proximate to one
of the first and second edges 112, 114. In other embodiments, the
movable support mechanisms 118, 120 may include rollers, skid
plates, or any other suitable components to assist with moving the
exercise device 100 along a supporting surface.
[0036] The exercise device 100 may include first and second
gripping mechanisms 124, 126 coupled to the main body 102. Each
gripping mechanism 124, 126 may be removably or permanently joined
to the main body 102 proximate to one of the first (or left) and
second (or right) edges 112, 114. The first and second gripping
mechanisms 124, 126 may be configured to allow a user to grip or
otherwise hold the gripping mechanisms 124, 126 and to allow the
user to apply a force onto the exercise device 100 through the
gripping mechanisms 124, 126. The exercise device 100 may further
include one or more apertures 128 for selectively positioning the
gripping mechanisms 124, 126 on the upper side 104 of the main body
102 at different locations. The apertures 128 may be circular or
any other suitable shape. Fasteners 130, such as screws, nuts and
bolts, or the like, may be used to join the first and second
gripping mechanisms 124, 126 to the exercise device 100. In other
embodiments, the gripping mechanisms 124, 126 may be joined by
other suitable connection methods. For example, the gripping
mechanism 124, 126 may be welded, fused, or adhered to the main
body 102 or integrally formed as part of the main body 102 by a
suitable process, such as molding or the like.
[0037] The main body 102 may be made of a flexible and shape
retaining material with a high yield strength, such as spring
steel, so that the main body 102 may retain its predefined or
original shape, resist changes to its original shape caused by
applied forces, and return to its original shape despite being
subjected to significant tensile and other forces.
[0038] With reference to FIG. 2, the exercise device 100 is shown
in its relaxed or pre-defined state. In this embodiment, the main
body 102 generally takes the form of an arch-shaped structure in
the relaxed or pre-defined state and a flattened arch-shaped or
relatively flat plate-like structure in an extended state. More
particularly, when pushing or equivalent forces are imposed upon
the main body 102, for example, by a user pushing the first and
second gripping mechanisms 124, 126 away from a center of the main
body 102 in directions that generally parallel the span of the main
body 102, such forces may cause the arch-shaped structure of the
main body 102 to flatten as the first and second edges 112, 114
move away from each other in directions that are generally parallel
to the span of the main body 102. This movement of the first and
second edges 112, 114 may be facilitated by the first and second
movable support mechanisms 118, 120, which also move away from each
other in directions that are also generally parallel to the span of
the main body 102. This movement of the first and second edges 112,
114 results in an increased span P2 of the main body 102 and a
lowered rise L2 of the arch-shaped structure in the extended state
compared to the relaxed or pre-defined state. In other words, the
arch-shaped structure flattens. Upon removing the forces applied to
the main body 102, the main body 102 returns to its original
predefined shape as the first and second edges 112, 114 move
towards each other in directions that are generally parallel to the
span of the main body 102.
[0039] Although pushing forces are described herein, the movement
of the first and second edges 112, 114 away from each other may be
caused by other forces as long as such forces include components
that cause the first and second edges 112, 114 of the main body 102
to move away from each other in directions that generally parallel
the span of the main body 102. In some examples, such forces may be
pulling forces applied by the user to the first and second gripping
mechanisms 124, 126 where the pulling forces are generally applied
in directions that are parallel to the span of, and away from the
center of, the main body 102. In some examples, such forces may be
a generally downward pressure applied on the upper side 104 of the
main body 102, either directly on the main body 102 or via the
gripping mechanisms 124, 126 that causes the arch-shaped structure
to be generally flattened. In some examples, such external forces
may be a combination of pulling or pushing forces acted upon the
gripping mechanisms 124, 126 and a downward pressure applied on the
upper side 104 of the main body 102, or any other combination of
forces. When the applied forces that cause the main body 102 to be
altered from its original predefined shape are removed, or replaced
by forces that are applied in directions that are generally
parallel to the span, and towards the center of the main body 102,
the main body 102 returns to its original predefined shape.
[0040] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D, when the
first and second movable support mechanisms 118, 120 include wheels
122, each wheel 122 may be joined to the underside 106 of the main
body 102 proximate to one of first and second edges 112, 114 via
one or more mounting brackets 132. Each mounting bracket 132 may
take the form of a generally L-shaped bracket, with one leg 134 of
the L-shaped mounting bracket 132 joined to the underside 106 of
the main body 102 using fasteners 136, and the other leg 138
including an aperture 140 that receives therein a portion of an
axle that may span between at least adjacent brackets 132.
[0041] Each wheel 122 may be coupled to its own axle. In some
embodiments, the axle 142 may be fixed to the mounting brackets 132
that support the axle 142, and the wheel 122 may rotate about the
axle 142. A bushing or other suitable bearing 144 may be provided
between the wheel 122 and the axle 142 to reduce the friction
therebetween and promote the rotation of the wheel 122 around the
axle 142. In some embodiments, each wheel 122 may be fixed to its
respective axle, and the axle may rotate with the wheel 122
relative to the mounting brackets 132 that support the axle. A
bearing may be provided between the axle and the mounting brackets
132 to facilitate rotation of the axle.
[0042] With reference to FIG. 4A, the wheels 122 may be joined to
the underside 106 of the main body 102 in such a manner as to allow
the main body 102 to be supported above the support surface by the
wheels 122. The mounting brackets 132 may be joined relatively
close to the first and second edges 112, 114 of the main body 102.
The diameter of the wheels 122 may be selected so that a minimal
desired distance .delta. between the first and second edges 112,
114 of the main body 102 and the support surface is maintained for
all configurations of the main body 102 between its original
predefined state and its fully extended and/or flattened state. In
some embodiments, this minimal desired distance .delta. may be
sufficiently large to limit the risk of a user's fingers being
pinched between the first and second edges 112, 114 of the main
body 102 and the support surface if the user should grip the edges
112, 114 with the user's hands when using the exercise device 100.
In such embodiments, this minimal desired distance .delta. may be
no less than approximately 2''.
[0043] With reference to FIGS. 4C and 4D, another example of
joining one or more wheels 122 to the underside 106 of the main
body 102 proximate to the first or second edges 112, 114 of the
main body 102 will be described. Multiple recesses 146 may be
formed at the first, second, or both edges 112, 114 of the main
body 102. Each recess 146 may receive at least a portion of a wheel
122. For each wheel 122 positioned proximate to a common edge 112,
114 of the main body 102, a common axle 148 may pass through the
center of each wheel 122 positioned proximate to the common edge
112, 114 of the main body 102 and provide an axis of rotation for
these wheels 122. The common axle 148 may extend along a
significant portion of the respective first or second edges 112,
114 and may be held against the underside 106 of the main body 102
by two or more brackets 150. Each of these two or more brackets 150
may include a central portion 152 conforming to the shape of the
common axle 148 and two wing portions 154 on either side of the
central portion 152. The wing portions 154 may be joined to the
underside 106 of the main body 102 by fasteners 156 or any other
suitable connection method, including welding, adhering, or fusing
the brackets 150 to the main body 102 or integrally forming (e.g.
molding) the brackets 150 with the main body 102. The central
portions 152 of the brackets 150 may be sized to create a snug
tight fit of the common axle 148 between each bracket 150 and the
main body 102 when the brackets 150 are fastened to the main body
102, thereby joining the common axle 148 and the wheels 122 coupled
thereto the underside 106 of the main body 102 and maintaining the
relative position of the common axle 148 to the main body 102. The
diameter of the wheels 122 and/or the mounting position of the
common axle 148 may be selected to allow for a minimal desired
clearance distance .delta. between the first and second edges 112,
114 of the main body 102 and the support surface as discussed
above.
[0044] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4A and 5A, in some
embodiments, each gripping mechanism 124, 126 may include a handle
156. Each handle 156 may be generally U-shaped with two ends joined
to the main body 102 by fasteners 130. For each handle 156, at
least one pair of apertures 128 may be formed in the main body 102
for fastening the handle 156 to the main body 102 at various
locations. The at least one pair of apertures 128 may take the form
of circular holes, square openings, elongated slots, or any other
suitable shapes or forms. Although pairs of apertures 128 for
joining two ends of the handle 156 to the main body 102 are shown
in the figures, a single aperture, or more than two apertures, may
be formed to join a handle to the main body 102 at a specific
location, depending on the configuration of the particular handle
used.
[0045] With reference to FIG. 5B, in some embodiments, each
gripping mechanism 124, 126 may include a recess 158 formed along
either the first or the second edge 112, 114 of the main body 102.
For each gripping mechanism 124, 126, the recess 158 may be located
proximate to a central portion of its respective edges 112, 114.
Further, each recess 158 may be formed with length and width
dimensions that allow a user's hand to fit within the recess 158
when gripping an inner recess edge 160 that defines the recess 158.
Yet further, each recess 158 may be configured with a depth so that
a user's hand generally does not extend beyond the first or second
edges 112, 114 associated with the recess 158 when the user grips
the inner recess edge 160. Such a configuration may assist in
keeping the user's hands from being pinched between the inner
recess edge 160 and the support surface as the main body 102 moves
between its predefined and extended configurations.
[0046] With reference to FIG. 5C, as another example, each gripping
mechanism 124, 126 may include an elongated slot 162 formed in the
main body 102 of the exercise device 100 proximate to the first and
second edges 112, 114 of the main body 102. Each elongated slot 162
may be formed with a width and a depth that allow a hand to fit
through the elongated slot 162 in order to allow the user to firmly
hold the main body 102. Although only one elongated slot 162 is
shown proximate to its respective first or second edges 112, 114 of
the main body 102, two or more elongated slots 162 may be formed
proximate to each of the first and second edges 112, 114 to allow a
user to hold the main body 102 at different positions.
[0047] The exercise device 100 may use various other gripping
mechanisms 124, 126 or a combination thereof. The exercise device
100 may be configured with both a recess 158 at the first and
second edges 112, 114 of the main body 102 and one or more
elongated slots 162 proximate to the first and second edges 112,
114. Recesses or waves may be formed at the upper edge 164 of the
elongated slot 162, the bottom edge of the recess 158, or the
underside of the handle 156 to conform to the fingers of a
user.
[0048] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another example of the exercise
device 200. This exercise device 200 may be generally similar to
the first described exercise device 100. For example, the second
exercise device 200 may include a main body 202 having an
arch-shaped structure, a pair of gripping mechanisms 204 coupled to
the upper side 206 of the main body 202 and proximate to the first
and second edges 208 of the main body 202, and first and second
movable support mechanisms 210 coupled to the underside 212 of the
main body 202 adjacent to the first and second edges 208 of the
main body 202. The materials used for the main body 202 of the
second exercise device 200 may be generally similar to, or the same
as, the materials used for the first exercise device 100. Yet
further, the gripping mechanisms 204 and the movable support
mechanisms 210 may be the similar to, or the same as, the gripping
mechanisms 124, 126 and movable support mechanisms 118, 120 for the
first exercise device 100.
[0049] The second exercise device 200 may differ from the first
exercise device 100 in that the second exercise device 200 may
further include at least one biasing mechanism 214 joined to the
underside 212 of the main body 202. However, the biasing mechanism
214 may also be utilized with the first exercise device 100. This
may be desired to provide a user with flexibility in changing the
difficulty of the work-out with the first exercise device 100.
[0050] The exercise device 200 may also differ from the exercise
device 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3 in that the main body 202 may be
preformed into a substantially flat plate-like structure that
allows for elastic bending into the arched shape structure. The
arched-shape structure of the main body 202 may then be formed and
maintained by tension forces applied by the at least one biasing
mechanism 214 that is coupled to the underside 212 of the main body
202. Specifically, the biasing mechanism 214 may take the form of
one or more elastic bands 216. One end of each elastic band 216 may
be coupled to the underside 212 of the main body 202 adjacent to
one of the first and second edges 208 of the main body 202, and the
other end of each elastic band 216 may be coupled to the underside
212 of the main body 202 adjacent to the other of the first and
second edges 208 of the main body 202. The elastic bands 216 may be
selected to have a length dimension that is shorter than the length
of the main body 202. Accordingly, each elastic band 216 is under
tension when the ends thereof are coupled to the underside 212 of
the main body 202. This tension in the elastic bands 216 imparts a
force on the main body 202 that causes the main body 202 to bend
and form the arch-shaped structure and to be maintained in this
arch shape.
[0051] The ends of each elastic band 216 may be joined to the
underside 212 of the main body 202 using any suitable connecting
mechanism. In some examples, a loop or ring 218 may be attached to
the underside 212 of the main body 202 by fasteners 220. Each end
of the elastic band 216 may be joined to the loop or ring 218 using
an S hook 222 that allows easy replacement or release of the
elastic band 216, or other suitable biasing mechanism 214, coupled
to the underside 212 of the main body 202. More than one loop or
ring 218 may be attached to the underside 212 of the main body 202.
Each loop or ring 218 may be joined to the main body 202 at a
location that is adjacent to one of the first and second edges 208
of the main body 202 for attachment of multiple elastic bands 216.
The elastic bands 216 may be joined to the underside 212 of the
main body 202 in a parallel configuration or in a crossed
configuration. In some embodiments, the at least one biasing
mechanism 214 may include torsion springs, coil springs, or any
other suitable materials or structures in lieu of, or in
combination with, the elastic bands 216.
[0052] For any of the previously described exercise devices, the
thickness of the main body may be a function of one or more of the
following: the type of material used and the desired resistance of
the exercise device. In particular, the thickness of the main body
may be selected so that the main body maintains its original
predefined shape unless a load above a predetermined amount is
applied to the main body. Further, the thickness may be selected so
that the load required to change the main body from its predefined
shape is less than the load that a typical user could apply to the
main body. For main bodies formed from spring steel, the thickness
of the main body may range from approximately 0.042'' to
0.062''.
[0053] The exercise device may be used to assist a user in
performing various types of exercises. With reference to FIGS. 7A
and 7B, the exercise device 100 may be used to help a user perform
fly exercises. Specifically, a user may place the exercise device
100 in front of the user's chest with the span of the main body 102
substantially parallel to the user's arm span (i.e., the span of
the main body 102 may be substantially transverse to the length of
the user's body). The user may hold the first and second gripping
mechanisms 124, 126 of the exercise device 100 using the user's
left and right hands. As the user lowers his or her chest (i.e.,
move the user's body toward the support surface), the forces
exerted on the exercise device 100 by the user causes the first and
second edges 112, 114 of the main body 102 to move away from each
other as shown in FIG. 7B, thus flattening the arch-shaped
structure of the main body 102. During this portion of the
exercise, the tendency of the main body 102 to return to its
original predefined shape opposes or resists the movement of the
user's chest to some extent while still allowing the user to move
his or her chest towards the support surface. As the user tries to
raise his or her chest (i.e., move the user's body away from the
support surface), the tendency of the main body 102 to return to
its original predefined shape assists the user in lifting his or
her body weight by supporting some of the user's weight. As such,
the exercise device assists the user in performing fly exercises by
effectively reducing the user's effective body weight. Accordingly,
less upper body strength may be required for a user to perform fly
exercises using the exercise device 100 as described herein, thus
allowing the user to focus on form while performing fly
exercises.
[0054] The user may use the exercise device 100, 200 to perform
conventional push-up exercises by adjusting the user's position
relative to the exercise device 100, 200 and placing the user's
hands on the support surface. One possible positioning of the
user's body and hands relative to the exercise device to perform a
push-up exercise is shown in FIG. 8. With reference to FIG. 8, a
user may free his or her hands from the gripping mechanisms 124,
126 of the exercise device 100 and simply use the exercise device
100 to support his or her core while performing a push-up exercise.
During the push-up exercise, the exercise device 100 assists the
user in performing at least a portion of the push-ups, such as when
the user tries to raise his or her chest (i.e., move the user's
body away from the support surface), by supporting the user's
weight, i.e., effectively reducing the user's effective weight.
With the support from the upper side 104 of the exercise device
100, the user may perform variants of the traditional push-ups such
as diamonds, wides, one-armed push-ups, planks, knuckles, and so
on. In addition to reducing the user's effective weight, the
exercise device allows the user to exercise the core at the same
time by stabilizing the mobile nature of the exercise device
100.
[0055] As the user builds up his or her strength, the user may
adjust the position of the gripping mechanisms 124, 126, 204 joined
to the upper side 104, 206 of the exercise device 100, 200, or
change the biasing mechanism 214 coupled to the underside 212 of
the exercise device 200, so as to adjust the level of assistance
received from the exercise device 100, 200 to support the user's
body weight when performing flys, push-ups, or other upper body
exercises.
[0056] The exercise device may be used to support a user's body in
other different positions while performing various types of
exercises. With reference to FIG. 9, a core stabilizing exercise
may also be performed when the exercise device 100 is used to
support the user's feet. As another example, the exercise device
100 may be positioned with the span of the arch of the main body
102 parallel or perpendicular to the user's arm span.
[0057] The exercises described above and shown in the figures are
just some examples of the numerous exercises that can be performed
using the exercise device. As can be seen in just these few
examples, the exercise device may be used to support a user's body
in different positions while performing various types of exercises.
Further, a user may free his or her hands from the gripping
mechanisms of the exercise device and simply use the exercise
device to support his or her core, or the user may support his or
her hands on the gripping mechanism. With the support from the main
body of the exercise device, the user may perform variants of the
traditional push-ups or other exercises, such as diamonds, wides,
one-armed push-ups, planks, knuckles, and so on. Yet further, the
user can utilize the mobile nature of the exercise device to
strengthen the user's core.
[0058] There are many potential advantages for the exercise devices
described herein. First, the fluid movement of the exercise devices
aids the user in retaining proper form throughout the entire
push-up, fly, or other upper body exercise, thereby reducing the
risk of injuries that might be caused by improper form. The
exercise devices allow a user to simultaneously perform multiple
upper body exercises, such as a push-up and chest fly thereby
providing an overall upper body workout and reducing time in
exercising. Moreover, a user can either use his or her own body
weight or the resistance of the biasing mechanism of the exercise
device when performing push-ups and/or fly exercises thereby
eliminating the necessity for free weights or weight machines.
Furthermore, compared to conventional weight machines, the exercise
devices may be lightweight and mobile. They may also be easy to
store. For example, the biasing mechanism 214 for the exercise
device 200 shown in FIG. 6A may be detached to restore the main
body 202 into its relatively flat shape thereby reducing the space
required for storage.
[0059] Further advantages of the exercise devices is that the
unique design of the exercise device enables the user to perform a
combination of different exercises in a back-to-back fashion; in
other words, the user can switch from one exercise to another
exercise with minimal delay. For example, the user may start with a
set of assisted fly exercises, then move immediately to a set of
assisted push-up exercises as shown, and then move immediately to a
set of core stabilizing exercises without re-configuring or
otherwise adjusting the exercise device. Accordingly, in one
exercise session, the user can perform various exercises, all with
the same exercise device, in a non-stop, or relatively non-stop,
manner with little or no adjustment of the exercise device. The
unique design of the exercise device eliminates the waiting time a
user would typically encounter in a gym setting when switching from
one piece of equipment for one exercise to another piece of
equipment for a different exercise. Additionally, the exercise
device allows the user to perform his or her exercise routines in a
very efficient manner and in the order the user prefers rather than
depending on the availability of the equipment. Finally, the
exercise device allows the user to perform many different types of
exercises in sequence with no adjustment to the exercise device,
and also allows a user to perform other combinations of different
types of exercises in sequence with minimal adjustment to the
exercise device. Many other advantages of the exercise device as
described herein may be appreciated by one skilled in the art or by
a user.
[0060] All directional references (e.g., upper, lower, upward,
downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above,
below, front, back, rear, forward, backward, rearward, inner,
outer, inward, outward, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and
counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid
the reader's understanding of the implementations of the present
invention, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the
position, orientation, or use of the invention unless specifically
set forth in the claims.
[0061] Dimensional references (e.g., length, width, height, depth,
relative orientation) are only used for identification purposes to
aid the reader's understanding of the exercise device 100, and do
not create limitations, particularly as to the relative size or
geometry of the exercise unless specifically set forth in the
claims.
[0062] Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected,
joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include
intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative
movement between elements. As such, connection references do not
necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in a
fixed relation to each other.
[0063] In some instances, components are described with reference
to "ends" having a particular characteristic and/or being connected
with another part. However, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the exercise device 100 is not limited to components which
terminate immediately beyond their points of connection with other
parts. Thus, the term "end" should be interpreted broadly, in a
manner that includes areas adjacent, rearward, forward of, or
otherwise near the terminus of a particular element, link,
component, part, member or the like. In methodologies directly or
indirectly set forth herein, various steps and operations are
described in one possible order of operation, but those skilled in
the art will recognize that steps and operations may be rearranged,
replaced, or eliminated without necessarily departing from the
scope of the described exercise devices. It is intended that all
matter contained in the above description or shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and
not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made that are
within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *